NightExtension Plugin - Detailed Description
Overview
NightExtension is a sophisticated Minecraft server plugin designed to enhance nighttime gameplay by extending the duration of night cycles. Built for Java Edition servers running Minecraft 1.21.3+, this plugin gives server administrators precise control over how long nights last, creating more immersive and strategic gameplay experiences.

Core Functionality
Night Duration Control
The plugin's primary feature is its ability to multiply the length of nighttime in your Minecraft worlds:

• Configurable multipliers from 1.0x (normal) up to 10.0x (ten times longer)
• Real-time monitoring of day/night cycles across all worlds
• Smooth time manipulation that doesn't break game mechanics
• Automatic detection of when night begins (12000 ticks) and ends (24000/0 ticks)

Multi-World Support

• Per-world configuration - enable/disable extension for specific worlds
• World whitelist/blacklist system for fine-grained control
• Simultaneous monitoring of multiple worlds
• Independent time flow - each world can have different settings

⚙️ Advanced Configuration
The plugin offers extensive customization through its config.yml:

# Example configuration showing key features
night-extension:
multiplier: 2.0 # Makes nights twice as long
enabled: true # Global on/off switch
worlds:
enabled: # Specific worlds to monitor
- "world"
- "world_nether"
- "world_the_end"
blacklist: [] # Worlds to exclude
messages:
broadcast-enabled: true
night-start: "&6 Night has been extended by {multiplier}x in {world}!"
night-end: "&6☀️ Extended night has ended in {world}!"
How It Works
Time Manipulation Algorithm

1. Continuous Monitoring: The plugin checks world time every second (20 ticks)
2. Night Detection: When time reaches 12000 (sunset), night extension begins
3. Time Slowing: During night, time progression is slowed based on the multiplier
4. Natural Transition: When dawn arrives (time 0), normal time flow resumes

Technical Implementation

• Non-intrusive: Doesn't modify core game mechanics
• Performance optimized: Minimal server impact with efficient scheduling
• Memory safe: Proper cleanup and resource management
• Thread-safe: Handles concurrent world operations safely

Command System
Administrative Commands
All commands require nightextension.admin permission:

• /nightextend status - View current plugin status and world information
• /nightextend reload - Hot-reload configuration without server restart
• /nightextend set <multiplier> - Temporarily adjust night multiplier (1.0-10.0)
• /nightextend toggle <world> - Enable/disable extension for specific worlds
• /nightextend help - Display command help

Command Aliases

• /ne - Short alias for nightextend
• /nightext - Alternative alias

Permission System
Granular Permissions

• nightextension.admin - Full access to all commands (default: OP)
• nightextension.reload - Permission to reload configuration (default: OP)
• nightextension.status - Permission to check plugin status (default: true)

Features in Detail
Broadcast System

• Customizable messages when night extension starts/ends
• Placeholder support for dynamic content ({world}, {multiplier})
• Color code support using Minecraft's § formatting
• Optional notifications - can be disabled for silent operation

Debug Mode

• Detailed logging for troubleshooting
• Time change tracking for monitoring plugin behavior
• Performance metrics to ensure optimal operation
• Error reporting with stack traces for development

Hot Reload

• Configuration changes without server restart
• World monitoring updates applied immediately
• Message updates take effect instantly
• Safe reloading with proper cleanup of old tasks

Use Cases & Benefits
Enhanced Gameplay

• Longer mob encounters during extended nights
• More time for night-specific activities (mining, building, exploring)
• Strategic planning around extended night cycles
• Increased challenge with longer periods of monster spawning

️ Server Administration

• Event coordination - synchronize activities with extended nights
• Resource balancing - adjust night length based on server economy
• Player engagement - create unique server experiences
• Seasonal events - temporary night extensions for special occasions

Creative Applications

• Roleplay servers - realistic day/night cycles for immersion
• Adventure maps - scripted experiences with controlled timing
• PvP servers - strategic advantages during extended nights
• Building servers - more time for detailed night construction

Technical Specifications
Compatibility

• Minecraft Version: 1.21.3+ (Java Edition)
• Server Software: Spigot, Paper, Purpur, and derivatives
• Java Version: 17+ required
• Dependencies: None (standalone plugin)

Performance

• Memory Usage: Minimal footprint (~1-2MB)
• CPU Impact: Negligible (single timer per world)
• Network Traffic: No additional network overhead
• Storage: Lightweight configuration files only

Build Information

• Language: Java 17
• Build System: Maven
• API: Spigot/Paper API 1.21.3
• Packaging: Single JAR file (~50KB)

Installation & Setup
Quick Installation

1. Download NightExtension-1.0.0.jar
2. Place in server's plugins/ folder
3. Restart server or use /reload
4. Configure in plugins/NightExtension/config.yml
5. Use /nightextend help to get started

Configuration Tips

• Start with a 2.0x multiplier for noticeable but not overwhelming changes
• Test in creative worlds before applying to survival servers
• Monitor server performance when using high multipliers (5.0x+)
• Communicate changes to players before implementing

Advanced Features
World-Specific Settings
Each world can have different behaviors:

• Overworld: Extended nights for survival gameplay
• Nether: Normal time flow (since it's always "night")
• End: Extended nights for dragon fights and exploration

Integration Possibilities
The plugin is designed to work alongside:

• Economy plugins - night-based job bonuses
• PvP plugins - extended combat windows
• Event plugins - timed server events
• Permission plugins - role-based access control

Troubleshooting & Support
Common Issues

• Time desync: Use /nightextend reload to resynchronize
• Performance concerns: Lower multiplier or exclude busy worlds
• Permission errors: Check OP status and permission plugin configuration

Debug Information
Enable debug mode in config.yml for detailed logging:

debug:
enabled: true
log-time-changes: true
This plugin represents a sophisticated approach to time manipulation in Minecraft, offering server administrators powerful tools to create unique and engaging gameplay experiences while maintaining stability and performance.